The School District of Philadelphia (SDP) intends to eliminate 5th Grade classes at A.S. Jenks (2501 S 13th) starting in the 2027-2028 school year.

Why 5th Grade at A.S. Jenks Matters:

Students who remain at A.S. Jenks for 5th grade demonstrate stronger academic performance and greater social maturity, leading to improved success in middle school.

Current 5th Grade Class Received 1st Place in the Rendell Center 2025 Citizenship Challenge:

The 2025-2026 5th Grade was awarded 1st Place for the Rendell Center 2025 Citizenship Challenge beating both other high performing School District of Philadelphia and suburban schools. Continued instruction at A.S. Jenks produces high performing, confident students.

Unnecessary School Transitions Burdens Families:
Eliminating 5th Grade classes at A.S. Jenks would put undue stress on students. Those students, and their families, who planned to continue to 5th Grade at A.S. Jenks, would need to find another school earlier than expected. Current options for such a transition are limited, and may not be feasible.

A.S. Jenks is a high performing school:

A.S. Jenks is one of the top ten elementary schools in the city. A.S. Jenks students scored above average on their reading and math compared to other elementary schools in the School District of Philadelphia. Schools such as A.S. Jenks exhibit the key qualities needed for continued student success.

Our Demands:

We, the undersigned parents, neighbors, and community leaders, demand that the School District of Philadelphia continue 5th Grade classes at A.S. Jenks.